“We call him our Messi – he has so much ability,” the Teessider told his club’s official website.

“With the way we play, when the ball goes into him, he can just drop his shoulder and go past people.

“That opens up the game for everyone, especially when we’ve got pace on the wing with James (McClean). “I don’t think he could have done much more this season and if he can keep those levels up and maybe add a couple more goals next season he will be an even bigger asset.”